Commercial pilot accused of driving 4 hours from Dallas to Conroe to have sex with child, DA says
The Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office said Travis Jared Whittemore, a 35-year-old commercial pilot, drove four hours to Conroe from the Dallas area to have sex with a child who was under the age of 10.
God’s Garage: Thieves break into Conroe non-profit’s garage, stole essential pickup truck
One Conroe non-profit is now having to deal with a set back that is costing them thousands of dollars, after thieves broke in, stole a vehicle and rammed it right through their gate, causing damage to both the gate and the vehicle.
Conroe ISD high school science teacher arrested, accused of having inappropriate relationship with student
A science teacher at a Conroe Independent School District high school has been arrested and charged for having an inappropriate relationship with a student, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.
‘There is nothing bigger than that for me’: Country star Parker McCollum reflects on his RodeoHouston debut
After the big success of his hits ‘Pretty Heart,’ ‘To be Loved by You,’ and a string of sold-out shows all over the nation, Conroe native Parker McCollum finds himself on the verge of country music superstardom.
‘NOT GUILTY SALE:’ Conroe gun store, shooting range announces holiday discounts following Rittenhouse verdict
A Conroe gun store and shooting range is facing criticism following a text message they sent to customers announcing a “not guilty sale” after Kyle Rittenhouse was acquitted of all charges Friday.
Bond set at $1M for Montgomery County pool contractor accused of leaving homeowners with unfinished projects
A Montgomery County pool builder is facing felony charges for taking more than a million dollars from more than 20 families with the promise of building them pools and hot tubs and leaving those jobs incomplete
Officers chase down possibly intoxicated wrong-way driver on the North Freeway, HPD says
Houston police, with the help of Montgomery County sheriff’s deputies, said they were able to catch up to a wrong-way driver traveling on the North Freeway Thursday morning. Authorities said the chase ended in Montgomery County.
Conroe apartment residents see sweeping change just days after exposed conditions
A relentless advocate for a community in Conroe has been able to bring changes to an apartment complex that badly needed it. KPRC 2 first reported about the Tall Timbers Apartments on September 21, and days later the community advocate and residents said rapid changes are being made. Residents said they are hopeful to have more livable conditions.
Residents at apartment complex in Conroe demands better living conditions after reportedly dealing with mold, mildew and rodents ‘for years’
Community advocates and residents at an apartment complex in Conroe have been expressing their concern for unlivable conditions, which they say they have dealt with for years.
New Conroe Hotel and Convention Center To Break Ground In September
Conroe, Texas – The City of Conroe has announced that construction for the upcoming Hyatt Regency Conroe and Convention Center will break ground in September. Located in the master-planned Grand Central Park off I-45 and just south of State Loop 336 W, the development will include a 250-room hotel, five-story parking garage, and a large business convention center. The convention center will contain 41,000 square feet of space, including a 15,000-square-foot grand ballroom, 8,000-square-foot junior ballroom, and 8,000 square feet of boardrooms and breakout spaces. According to Assistant City Administrator/CFO Steve Williams, the project will be financially self-sustaining with its costs paid through revenue from the hotel and convention center. Hyatt Regency Conroe will be another jewel in the crown of America’s Miracle City.
springhappenings.com‘We must do more’: Conroe ISD moves to ‘Alert Level 4′ with hundreds of new COVID-19 cases daily
With COVID-19 spreading throughout Conroe ISD so quickly, the district moved to Alert Level 4, which is the second-highest level and one level away from considering shutting down campuses and even the entire district.
Houston leaders cite anger, COVID-19 pandemic, and bond reform as reasons behind rising crime rates
When KPRC 2 Investigates discussed the rising crime rates from the inner city to the suburbs, we received a range of responses from several law enforcement agencies. The data shows that no part of the region is immune to crime, but where a person lives can determine what type of crime they will face.
Kansas man arrested in 38-year-old southeast Texas slaying
A 75-year-old Kansas City, Kansas, man has been arrested on a murder warrant in a nearly four decade old homicide in southeast Texas. Thomas Elvin Darnell was taken to the Montgomery County jail Thursday after being arrested Monday in Kansas on a murder warrant for the 1983 death of Laura Purchase, according to Montgomery County Sheriff’s Lt. Scott Spencer.
news.yahoo.comArtavia releases new 65-foot homesites, homes from the $300,000s (Sponsored)
Photo courtesy of ArtaviaJust in time for spring, Artavia, a 2,200-acre master-planned community in the Montgomery County/Conroe area, is releasing new homesites. Coventry Homes and David Weekley Homes are building on the newly released 65-foot lots, with homes priced from the $370,000s and $410,000s, ranging in size from 2,600 to 4,100 square feet. “When you combine the unique amenities with the demand of new home building and low inventory, it creates a limited opportunity to call Artavia home,” said Lisa Connell, marketing director for Airia Development Company. “We expect this next release of lots to sell quickly.”
chron.comConroe family files $100 million lawsuit after son's death during winter storm
Houston attorney Tony Buzbee is now filing a $100 million lawsuit against ERCOT and Entergy on behalf of Pineda's family. Buzbee stated that Texans were overwhelmingly failed during the winter storm that struck the state last week because of the negligence of energy providers. We like to brag that it's energy independent, and yet we have people dying in their homes because we don't have any power," Buzbee said. The companies need to be honest with us. ON HOLD: Texas officials block energy companies from levying huge bills on customersERCOT officials issued a statement about winter storm tragedy.
chron.comConroe ISD Announces School Closure Monday, January 11, 2021
Conroe, Texas – The Conroe Independent School District has announced they will be closed on Monday, January 11, 2021, due to potentially hazardous road conditions. The closure encompasses both in-person and virtual learning. Classes will resume on Tuesday, January 12, 2021.
springhappenings.comSemi-Truck Crashes into Pappas Bar-B-Q Restaurant along I-45
Conroe, Texas – A truck driver and patrons inside Pappas Bar-B-Q restaurant escaped without injury after a semi-truck crashed into the building. The crash happened just after 7:00 PM Tuesday in the 27700 block of Interstate 45 North. Officials with the Woodlands Fire Department say the restaurant was fully staffed but incredibly everyone walked away without injuries. It is unknown what caused the semi to crash into the building. Photo Credit: The Woodlands Fire Department
springhappenings.comArtavia community announces Rockin' Sales Event this month
Artavia, the master-planned community in the Montgomery County/Conroe area, is kicking off a Rockin’ Sales event during the month of October with special pricing by every builder on every move-in ready home. Homes in Artavia are offered by Coventry Homes, David Weekley Homes, Highland Homes, J. Patrick Homes, Lennar, Perry Homes, Ravenna Homes and Westin Homes. “Buyers can take advantage of the low interest rates, special pricing and move-in by year end,” said Lisa Connell, Marketing Director of Airia Development Company, the developer of Artavia. “Every builder is celebrating the month of October with Rockin’ special pricing and incentives. Artavia is located north of Grand Parkway, midway between I-45 north and US 59 north, and east of FM 1314 on SH 242.
chron.comA new home for Houston Community Newspaper stories
Smiley N. Pool/Houston ChronicleLocal news coverage from 12 suburban newspapers serving more than half a million homes in the greater Houston area has a new home on HoustonChronicle.com, the exclusive subscriber website of the Houston Chronicle. The coverage appeared previously on the newspaper’s affiliated non-subscriber website, Chron.com. Top stories and photos about the day-to-day happenings in Houston Community Newspapers coverage areas – Atascocita, Bay Area, Conroe, CyFair, Deer Park, East Montgomery County, Friendswood, Humble, Katy, Kingwood, Lake Houston, Magnolia, Memorial, Pasadena, Pearland, Spring, Sugar Land, Tomball and The Woodlands – will be featured regularly on the homepage and updated continuously at HoustonChronicle.com/neighborhood.
chron.comRain may have contributed to fatal Conroe crash
Rain may have contributed to fatal Conroe crashRain-slicked roads and poor visibility may have been a factor in a deadly two-vehicle crash Sunday afternoon in Conroe that left one person dead. Rain-slicked roads and poor visibility may have been a factor in a deadly two-vehicle crash Sunday afternoon in Conroe that left one person dead. Photo: Scott Engle Photo: Scott Engle Image 1 of / 11 Caption Close Rain may have contributed to fatal Conroe crash 1 / 11 Back to GalleryRain-slicked roads and poor visibility may have been a factor in a deadly two-vehicle crash Sunday afternoon in Conroe that left one person dead. Conroe Fire Department officials arrived at the intersection of Montgomery Park Boulevard and North Loop 336 just after 1 p.m. The crash closed North Loop for over an hour Sunday afternoon.
chron.comHouston coronavirus updates: What you need to know for April 4
Houston coronavirus updates: What you need to know for April 4Astros' star, Justin Verlander and his wife Kate Upton have decided to donate his MLB paychecks to different organizations providing COVID-19 relief efforts. Photo: Justin Verlander Photo: Justin Verlander Image 1 of / 142 Caption Close Houston coronavirus updates: What you need to know for April 4 1 / 142 Back to GalleryChron.com is compiling the latest headlines on the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on the Houston area. The ninth death from this pandemic has also been reported in Houston, according to Mayor Turner. Earlier this week, the company announced that a Delta ground handler had died from coronavirus9:13 a.mThe coronavirus cases worldwide has now climbed to 1,139,207 cases, according to Johns Hopkins University. 8:50 a.m.Houston has now reached a tally of 506 COVID-19 cases, with the death toll rising to 8.
chron.comNew Margaritaville Resort on Lake Conroe Hiring for 350 Positions
Conroe, Texas The first Margaritaville Resort in Texas is getting closer to opening. The company is looking to fill nearly 350 positions at two upcoming job fairs. Last year, plans were announced to turn the former La Torretta Resort & Spa into a Jimmy Buffet-themed resort. The new Margaritaville Resort will feature 360 guest rooms in their main 20-story hotel tower along with waterfront villas along the lake. The resort is scheduled to open in the summer of 2020.
springhappenings.comThere are 21 toxic sites in and around Houston, according to EPA. Heres whats in them
There are 21 toxic sites in and around Houston, according to EPA. The ... more Photo: Google Maps Photo: Google Maps Image 1 of / 27 Caption Close There are 21 toxic sites in and around Houston, according to EPA. Heres whats in them 1 / 27 Back to GalleryIts been nearly 20 years since the Environmental Protection Agency identified the Jones Road Ground Water Plume near Cypress as a toxic site. From dumping creosote to other chemicals and hazardous waste, the EPA has identified 21 sites in Harris and surrounding counties. Jay R. Jordan covers breaking news in the Houston area.
chron.comThis Houston-area city is the fastest growing in the country
Texas is the state that keeps on growing. new study shows the Lone Star State is home to many of the cities seeing the fastest population growth. Out of the 25 cities ranked, 11 of them are in Texas, with the city of Conroe taking the top spot.According to "24/7 Tempo," Conroe more than doubled in size since 2000, going from nearly 37,000 people to 77,000.Cheaper homes, newer homes and being closer to nature are some of the reasons people name for moving there.City officials expect Conroe to hit 100,000 residents by 2020.Watch the video above to see which Texas cities are named in the survey.
abc13.comShould we expect a cold Houston winter?
Houston, TX - So, how'd you do this morning with the cold weather? Given our normal low for today is 53F, what might this November cold snap mean to January? In fact, the Polar Vortex is strong right now which means it is locking up a lot of cold air over the Arctic. But any weakening this winter would allow a surge of cold air. The summer wasn't crazy hot, as we had a July cold snap dropping lows to 65F and 68F on the 20th/21st.
Womans naked body found near Conroe
Womans naked body found near ConroeThe naked body of a 50-year-old Coldsprings woman was discovered near the entrance of a property on the 12900 block of Rose Road in Conroe, Texas. The naked body of a 50-year-old Coldsprings woman was discovered near the entrance of a property on the 12900 block of Rose Road in Conroe, Texas. Photo: Google Maps Photo: Google Maps Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close Womans naked body found near Conroe 1 / 1 Back to GalleryThe Montgomery County Sheriff's Office is investigating the death of a woman whose nude body was discovered Sunday morning on private property in Conroe. Authorities were called at 7:30 a.m. to the 12900 block of Rose Road, where a deputy found the body of Leah Vaughn, 50, of Coldspring, on the ground near the entrance of the property, according to a statement issued by the sheriffs office. Bodies Found: Bodies of missing married couple found in shallow grave on Texas beach.
chron.comW.G. Jones State Forest now offers 'forest bathing' retreats to commune with nature
Jones State Forest in Conroe, where small groups are met by a therapist and a doctor, who both discuss the science behind forest therapy. Then, the doctor records the participants' blood pressure, listens to their heartbeats, and asks them about their mood. Studies from the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy have shown forest therapy reduces the amount of cortisola stress hormonein the body. Jones State Forest. "But in offering forest therapy, we're giving everyone an opportunity to experience the mind-body health benefits of a forest."
How rescue horses in Conroe, Texas are helping veterans cope with issues like PTSD
Henry's Home Horse Sanctuary located in Conroe, Texas, hosts "Horses and Heroes," a program developed to use rescue horses for therapy offered to veterans and first responders. "We take in rescued horses and surrendered horses and give them a forever home. We've got about 20 horses here," Executive Director Donna Stedman said.Stedman said the program is the only one of its kind, which is recognized by the Disabled Veterans National Foundation. The vets and first responders have to learn how to communicate how their energy comes across and learn control, all by the way of the horse.Veterans and first responders are invited to bring their families as well. Everything from riding lessons, training, and horsemanship care are provided for them at no cost ever.
abc13.comConroe man faces charges after accidentally shooting friend with AK-47 pistol, police say
21-year-old Deondre DD Johnson was arrested after a 19-year-old man was shot and killed in Conroe, Texas on Oct. 30, 2019. CONROE, Texas - A Conroe man faces charges after police say he accidentally shot and killed his friend at an apartment complex Wednesday evening. At about 5:30 p.m., Conroe police responded to the White Oak apartment complex at 2330 Montgomery Park Blvd. Police and paramedics found 19-year-old Taylor Abner with a gunshot wound to the abdomen. KPRC Conroe Police say 19-year-old Taylor Abner was accidentally shot and killed with an AK-47 pistol on Oct. 30, 2019.
Conroe man faces charges after accidentally shooting friend with AK-47 pistol, police say
21-year-old Deondre DD Johnson was arrested after a 19-year-old man was shot and killed in Conroe, Texas on Oct. 30, 2019. CONROE, Texas - A Conroe man faces charges after police say he accidentally shot and killed his friend at an apartment complex Wednesday evening. At about 5:30 p.m., Conroe police responded to the White Oak apartment complex at 2330 Montgomery Park Blvd. Police and paramedics found 19-year-old Taylor Abner with a gunshot wound to the abdomen. KPRC Conroe Police say 19-year-old Taylor Abner was accidentally shot and killed with an AK-47 pistol on Oct. 30, 2019.
Conroe Family Dentistry to relocate in spring 2020
Conroe Family Dentistry will relocate from 1517 Wilson Road, Conroe, to 1362 Wilson Road, Conroe, in spring 2020. Office Manager Traci Wood said the new office will feature four hygiene rooms, six operatories and two surgical rooms. Wood said the practice has been at its current location for five years. 936-539-2211. www.conroefamilydentistry.com
communityimpact.comUniversity of St. Thomas alters location for new nursing campus, announces plans for microcampus
The University of St. Thomas has altered its plan for its satellite campus in Conroe and has announced plans for a second project in the citya microcampus.Jeff Olsen, vice president of marketing for St. Thomas, said the university is no longer pursuing plans to build a satellite campus for an accelerated bachelors degree in nursing at 700 Old Montgomery Road. Olsen said the university is still committed to finding a location in Conroe and will be ready to open in fall 2020. In the meantime, the university will open a microcampus in downtown Conroe in early 2020. Olsen said the university has not decided on a specific address, but the microcampus will serve as a storefront for the university in the community. 1, create awareness on our end about who we are as the University of St. Thomas, Olsen said.
communityimpact.comTop tips for keeping trick-or-treaters safe on Halloween
Top tips for keeping trick-or-treaters safe on HalloweenKyle Bryent carries his son, Lincoln, beside his wife, Tamera, dressed as Buzz Lightyear and the aliens from Toy Story during the Trick or Treat Trail at Carol Barton, Jr. Park, Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in Conroe. According to FedEx Cares, on Halloween, children are hit and killed by vehicles while walking at a rate double than for any other day of the year. Among their top safety tips for drivers:Pay attention to stopped cars, ready for the event that they are picking up or dropping-off children. Safe Kids also has safe walking tips for pedestrians, especially focused on parents and children:Use glow sticks and flashlights, to better help drivers see them in the road. Safe Kids has also released a video pertaining to the use of glow sticks and flashlights, which can be found here.
chron.comCounty takes hard line with recent state cannabis laws, CBD market grows despite lack of regulations
However, Montgomery County officials said they plan to continue prosecuting marijuana-related cases, which could affect some CBD consumers. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has yet to set up regulations on the standards and practices surrounding CBD. Ligon spoke to the Montgomery County Commissioners Court about HB 1325 on July 9. On July 9, Ligon received funding from the Montgomery County Commissioners Court to hire labs to determine the THC percentage. I fully support Montgomery County DA Brett Ligon in continuing to prosecute marijuana cases, Metcalf said.
communityimpact.comFun Town RV now open in Conroe
Fun Town RV opened Oct. 12 at 1505 Porter Rd, Conroe. The recreational vehicle super store sells a variety of RVs and also offers trade-ins. The franchise has several locations throughout Texas, Oklahoma and Indiana. The Conroe location is the businesss second location in the Houston area. 936-320-0001. www.funtownrv.com
communityimpact.comTxDOT continues to seek public input on I-45 solutions
As part of the Texas Department of Transportations ongoing study of I-45 between Beltway 8 North in Spring and South Loop 336 in Conroe, the entity is seeking public input on potential solutions to improve corridor conditions. Phase 1 of the PEL Study wrapped up in summer 2018. Phase 2 kicked off in spring 2019 and is planned to wrap up by spring 2021. Following a round of public meetings in the spring, TxDOT held another round in October in hopes of getting the public more involved with the process. RELATED Oak Ridge North approves groundwater permit renewal The Oak Ridge North City Council unanimously approved a renewal of its permit with Lonestar Groundwater Conservation District for 2020... >The next I-45 PEL Study public meeting will be Oct. 16 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Oak Ridge High School Ninth Grade Campus, located at 27310 Oak Ridge School Road, Conroe.
communityimpact.comMain Street Merchants opens storefront in downtown Conroe
Main Street Merchants opened in downtown Conroe on Oct. 15. Owner Janese Sokulski said she and her daughter Carley Cremin opened the store under the idea of homemade goods by homegrown artists. The store stocks skin care products, jewelry, decor and many other items made by local artists. For its grand opening, Sokulski said the store will be open from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. with live music and food at 208 A N. Main St., Conroe. 918-261-9769. www.facebook.com/merchantson208main
communityimpact.comWoof Gang Bakery & Grooming Conroe now open
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming Conroe celebrated its grand opening Oct. 12 at 525 Woodlands Square Blvd, Ste. 150, Conroe. The pet supply franchise offers premium pet food as well as grooming services for cats and dogs. The franchise has 21 locations in Texas. 936-506-9663. www.woofgangbakery.com
communityimpact.comHippie Hemp CBD now open in Conroe
Hippie Hemp CBD opened Oct. 10 at 813 I-45 S., Conroe. Owner Daniel Pruett said the store has a variety of products, such as tinctures, oils and creams as well as more unique products such as CBD honey and coffee. 936-521-9019. www.facebook.com/hippie-cbd-252703578941276
communityimpact.comConroe Professional Firefighters Association celebrates 40 years of service
Conroe Professional Firefighters Association celebrated its 40th anniversary Oct. 5. The organization works to protect the rights and benefits of firefighters in the city of Conroe. The association does not have an office or phone number but does have a mailing address: P.O. Box 306, Conroe. www.facebook.com/IAFFLocal2731
communityimpact.comTxDOT tackling traffic woes on I-45 between The Woodlands and Conroe
TxDOT is preparing to tackle traffic issues along I-45 between the Woodlands to Conroe and is looking for your ideas.The study is focused on the I-45 corridor from North Beltway-8 to Loop 336 South affecting communities such as Oak Ridge North, Shenandoah, Conroe, and The Woodlands Township. So far, TxDOT says drivers have asked for improved frontage roads, interchanges, and east-west corridors, along with enhanced public transit.There are two ways to offer your feedback -- online and in-person.There are three meetings happening soon.Harvest Time Church17770 Imperial Valley DriveHouston, TX 7706010 a.m. - noonSpring High School19428 I-45 NorthSpring, TX 773735:30 p.m - 7 p.m.Oak Ridge High School 9th grade27310 Oak Ridge School RoadConroe, TX 773855:30 p.m - 7 p.m.You can also fill out an online survey and provide your feedback to TxDOT here
abc13.comTxDOT tackling traffic woes on I-45 between The Woodlands and Conroe
TxDOT is preparing to tackle traffic issues along I-45 between the Woodlands to Conroe and is looking for your ideas.The study is focused on the I-45 corridor from North Beltway-8 to Loop 336 South affecting communities such as Oak Ridge North, Shenandoah, Conroe, and The Woodlands Township. So far, TxDOT says drivers have asked for improved frontage roads, interchanges, and east-west corridors, along with enhanced public transit.There are two ways to offer your feedback -- online and in-person.There are three meetings happening soon.Harvest Time Church17770 Imperial Valley DriveHouston, TX 7706010 a.m. - noonSpring High School19428 I-45 NorthSpring, TX 773735:30 p.m - 7 p.m.Oak Ridge High School 9th grade27310 Oak Ridge School RoadConroe, TX 773855:30 p.m - 7 p.m.You can also fill out an online survey and provide your feedback to TxDOT here
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